Far-off Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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far-off

[ˈfɑːr-ɒf ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

distance

Far-off means very distant in space or time.

Synonyms

distant, faraway, remote.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
far-off	Used to describe something that is very far away in terms of distance or time. Often used in a poetic or romantic sense. In a far-off land, there was a kingdom where magic still existed
distant	General term for something that is far away from the point of reference. Can be used for physical distance, emotional distance, or even time. She could see the distant mountains from her window
remote	Refers to a place that is very far from populated areas or difficult to reach. Can also describe someone who is emotionally distant. They decided to hike to a remote cabin in the woods
faraway	Similar to 'far-off,' it is used to describe something that is very far away in distance. Often implies a sense of mystery or exoticism. The explorer talked about his adventures in faraway lands

Examples of usage

The mountains looked far-off in the distance.
She dreams of visiting far-off lands.
The idea of retirement seemed far-off when she was young.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

time

Far-off can also mean happening or appearing a long time in the future.

Synonyms

distant, distant future, long-term.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
far-off	Used to describe something that is physically or temporally very far away from the current position or time. She dreamed of traveling to far-off lands. The success seems like a far-off goal at the moment.
distant	Refers to something that is far away in space or time. It can also describe something that is emotionally or relationally far. He gazed at the distant mountains. She felt a distant connection with her relatives.
distant future	Specifies a time that is far ahead in the future. Climate change will have serious effects in the distant future. He plans to retire in the distant future after several more years of work.
long-term	Used when talking about something that spans a significant period of time, often implying planning or effects that will be felt over an extended duration. The company is looking for long-term investment opportunities. Adopting a healthy lifestyle has long-term benefits.

Examples of usage

The deadline for the project seemed far-off, but it's actually next month.
His far-off plans include traveling the world.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural References

The idea of distant lands is a common theme in stories; for example, many fairy tales involve far-off kingdoms where adventures take place.
In music and art, distant places often symbolize dreams and aspirations, like in the folk song 'Far Away Places' that discusses the longing to explore.
Movies often depict far-off destinations as magical or mysterious, enticing viewers with the promise of adventure.

Science

In astronomy, far-off celestial bodies, like distant galaxies, tell us about the universe's past and how it has evolved over billions of years.
The concept of 'far-off' allows scientists to study phenomena, such as light years, to measure vast distances in space.

Philosophy

Philosophers often ponder the idea of the 'far-off' in relation to time and existence, questioning what it means to be distant from one's goals or ideals.
In existential thought, the notion of far-off dreams challenges individuals to find meaning in both immediate and distant ambitions.

Psychology

The idea of 'far-off' can affect motivation; knowing that goals are distant may encourage some to work harder but can also lead others to feel overwhelmed.
Vision boards often include far-off dreams to help people visualize and work towards distant goals.

Origin of 'far-off'

Main points about word origin

The term combines 'far', which derives from Old English 'fiere', meaning 'distant', and 'off', which comes from Old English 'of', meaning 'away'.
The phrase reflects the evolution of language where distance and separation are interconnected in expression.

The term far-off originated in the early 19th century to describe something that is very distant in space or time. It is a combination of the word 'far' and 'off', indicating a significant distance away. Over time, the term has been commonly used in both literal and figurative contexts to convey the idea of something being remote or distant.